Alaina Santana

"I am excited to work alongside aspiring and practicing educators who are passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children."

For over twenty years, Alaina Santana has served students, educators, and school communities across Oregon in a variety of roles, including classroom teacher, school administrator, district leader, and instructional coach. Her work has centered on literacy development, curriculum and instructional leadership, educator mentorship, and building systems that support meaningful learning for all students.

After beginning her career as a teacher, Alaina expanded her leadership through school and district administration, where she led districtwide initiatives in literacy, curriculum adoption, multi-tiered systems of support, instructional coaching, and professional learning. Throughout her career, she has partnered with educators to strengthen instructional practice, develop equitable systems of support, and improve student outcomes.

Alaina holds a master of science in education and an English for Speakers of Other Languages endorsement from Corban University and an administrative license from George Fox University. Her professional interests include literacy research, teacher education, instructional leadership, and translating educational research into practices that empower both educators and students.

She strives to support educators in creating rich, engaging, and inclusive learning environments. Through intentional instructional practices, culturally responsive teaching, and a commitment to equity, she believes educators can create opportunities for every learner to experience belonging, success, and the joy of learning.

Alaina is honored to join the University of Portland community, where she looks forward to learning alongside future teachers and practicing educators who are committed to the calling of education. Outside of her professional work, Alaina enjoys spending time and going for walks with her family, reading, exploring new restaurants, and watching college football with their friends.